Disclaimer: The information in this document is solely for reference material. Regulations change often. To be sure of the most up-to-date laws, contact your local and state agencies.
To take X-rays in an urgent care center, an individual typically needs formal education, clinical training, and proper licensing. This ensures the safety and efficacy of radiographic procedures for patients. The qualifications often include graduation from an accredited radiologic technologist program, obtaining certification from recognized bodies such as the ARRT, and adhering to state-specific licensure requirements. Continuous education is paramount to staying updated with the latest radiologic technologies and protocols.
Alabama
In Alabama, overseen by the Department of Health's Office of Radiation Control, there's no mandated licensing to operate X-ray equipment. However, practitioners need to successfully pass the state-approved Industrial Radiology Exam. Additionally, they must complete a notable 480 hours of hands-on training for adequate preparation and safety.
Alaska
Alaska's guidelines, maintained by the State's Department of Health and Social Services, don't necessitate a formal license. But there's a clear emphasis on undergoing state-prescribed training in general radiology technology, ensuring high standards.
Arizona
The Arizona Department of Health Services lays down comprehensive requirements. Professionals need an ARRT Certification or an equivalent credential. Beyond this, they must commit to 210 training hours and 480 clinical hours. There's also a requirement to pass the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam under a licensed practitioner's guidance.
Arkansas
Arkansas, supervised by the Department of Health's Radiologic Technology Licensure Program, mandates the ARRT Certification or an equivalent - with the option of a 180-day temporary license. To practice further, individuals must clear the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam and operate under a licensed professional.
California
California's regulations, managed by the Department of Health's Radiologic Health Branch, require the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Furthermore, operators need a Limited Permit X-Ray Technician School Diploma. Another vital step is to clear state-approved radiology safety and limited-scope exams to ensure specialized competence.
Colorado
Colorado, while not emphasizing a state license, upholds the importance of ARRT Exam clearance. The Department of Public Health and Environment requires 80 didactic hours and 480 clinical training hours. Operators must also execute 80 hands-on imaging procedures and engage in 24 hours of education every two years.
Connecticut
Beyond the ARRT Certification or an equivalent credential overseen by the State Department Public of Health, Connecticut entrusts the professionals to uphold their duty without extensive state-mandated checks, emphasizing trust in trained professionals.
Delaware
Delaware's guidelines, maintained by the Department of Public Health, specify the need for the ARRT Certification or a similar qualification. Prospective practitioners should also complete an approved study course and excel in the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam. Each exam category further solidifies their specialization.
District of Columbia
For the District of Columbia, there's a notable absence of concrete regulations or specifications for operating X-ray machines in urgent care environments. This lack of information implies a more flexible stance, but it's essential to ensure practices remain up to industry standards.
Florida
Florida, guided by the Department of Health’s Council on Radiation Protection, necessitates the ARRT Certification or its counterpart. Additionally, professionals must clear the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam, work under a licensed individual's supervision, undertake 12 hours of biennial education, and go through a department-approved course.
Georgia
Overseen by the Georgia Department of Community Health, Georgia does not mandate a license for operating X-ray machines. Instead, professionals must complete state-prescribed training in radiology technology, ensuring a baseline level of skill without needing a formal license.
Hawaii
In Hawaii, the State Department of Health Indoor and Radiologic Health Branch necessitates the ARRT Certification for practitioners. There isn't an extensive list of additional requirements, focusing primarily on this central certification to ensure quality practice.
Idaho
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare currently doesn't provide detailed stipulations or mandates regarding the operation of X-ray machines in urgent care settings. Professionals are advised to follow industry best practices and any specific guidelines provided by the department.
Illinois
Managed by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Illinois necessitates either the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Additional requirements include passing the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam and working under the direction of a licensed practitioner. Specific focus areas like the chest, extremities, skull/sinus, and spine are also highlighted.
Indiana
In Indiana, the State Department of Health Division of Radiology and Weights & Measures mandates either the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Professionals must also complete a department-approved study course and pass the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam. Some radiographic procedures, including mammography and contrast, are excluded.
Iowa
Managed by the Department of Public Health, Iowa requires either the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Additionally, professionals must undertake 24 hours of continuing education every two years, complete a state-approved online course, and pass the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam. Focus areas include the chest, spine, and extremities.
Kansas
The Kansas State Board of Healing Arts mandates the ARRT Certification or its equivalent for practitioners. An important aspect is the 12 hours of continuing education required in the 12 months preceding renewal, ensuring continuous skill updates and competence.
Kentucky
Managed by the Kentucky Board of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, Kentucky emphasizes the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Furthermore, a 24-hour continuing education in a 2-year period is mandated. General licenses allow for various X-ray procedures with specific areas highlighted. A separate license is essential for certain practices.
Louisiana
The Louisiana State Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners and the Louisiana Board of Medical Examiners for limited scope in a physician’s office emphasize the ARRT Certification. Professionals must also complete a board-approved course and operate under the supervision of a licensed physician in private practice settings.
Maine
The Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners in Maine requires either the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Practitioners also must undergo 24 hours of continuing education in a 2-year period, complete a state-approved limited licensure course, and pass the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam. Specific areas for X-ray practice are outlined with a training focus.
Maryland
Managed by the Maryland Board of Physicians – Allied Health Licensing, Maryland stipulates either the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Additionally, a 24-hour continuing education in a 2-year period is mandatory.
Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Radiation Control Program necessitates either the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Practitioners are also required to complete 20 hours of continuing education in a 2-year period, ensuring high proficiency and expertise.
Michigan
The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration doesn't provide concrete regulations or requirements for operating X-ray machines in urgent care settings. Professionals should adhere to industry standards and specific guidelines an organization offers.
Minnesota
Guided by the Minnesota Department of Health – X-Ray Program, Minnesota mandates the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. There's a requirement for 24 hours of continuing education every two years. Operators practicing before 2008 are grandfathered, while new professionals must pass a state-approved exam. Specific regions for radiography are detailed based on exam clearance.
Mississippi
Overseen by the Mississippi State Department of Health and the State Board of Medical Licensure, Mississippi requires the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Practitioners also need 24 hours of continuing education in a 2-year period and 12 hours of state-approved education. Areas of radiography are highlighted based on the education and training acquired.
Missouri
Overseen by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and their Radiation Control Program, Missouri does not have specific licensing requirements, additional training, or defined scopes of practice for radiography.
Montana
Overseen by the Montana Department of Labor & Industry and the Board of Radiologic Technologists, Montana mandates the ARRT Certification or an equivalent. Prospective practitioners must also complete a 104-hour board-approved course or have finished half of an ARRT-recognized RT program. After passing the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam, they are qualified to perform X-rays in various areas, including the chest, extremities, skull/sinus, and spine.
Nebraska
Under the purview of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Nebraska radiographers must possess the ARRT Certification or an equivalent. They must pass the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography Exam and undertake 24 hours of continuing education in a 2-year period. Once licensed, their scope of practice encompasses X-ray areas like the chest, extremities, skull/sinus, spine, ankle and foot, and bone density.
Nevada
Regulated by the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health, Nevada does not specify particular licensing requirements, additional training, or scopes of practice for radiography.
New Jersey
Guided by the State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and their Radiation Protection Element, New Jersey demands the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Aspiring practitioners have different training paths based on their focus: a 350-hour board-approved course for limited chest or a 1,400-hour board-approved course for limited orthopedics. After passing the relevant board-approved exam, they can practice in areas like chest, orthopedic, and podiatric radiography. Notably, special licenses also exist for fusion imaging CT and urologic fluoroscopy.
New Hampshire
Under the administration of the State of New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and the Certification Board of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy, New Hampshire necessitates the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Those interested must complete a board-approved course in limited X-ray machine operation and pass the associated exam. Their scope of practice includes X-ray areas such as the chest, extremities, skull/sinus, spine, ankle and foot, and bone density.
New Mexico
Directed by the New Mexico Environment Department and their Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Program, New Mexico mandates the ARRT Certification or an equivalent. Candidates must finish a state-approved limited radiology program, pass a state-approved exam or its equivalent, and complete 24 hours of continuing education over two years. They are limited to radiography of the viscera of the thorax, extremities, axial/appendicular skeleton, foot, ankle, lower leg, and dental.
New York
Under the authority of the New York State Department of Health, practitioners in New York need to pass a state-approved exam or have the ARRT Certification or its equivalent. They must also undergo 12 hours of continuing education annually. Specific scopes of practice are not provided by the state.
North Carolina
Overseen by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and their Radiology Compliance Branch, North Carolina does not provide detailed licensing requirements, additional training, or defined scopes of practice for radiography.
North Dakota
Regulated by the Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Board, North Dakota requires the ARRT Certification or an equivalent. Aspirants need to already hold roles such as PA, RN/LPN, Tech, PT/PTA, or petition the board. They must also finish a board-approved study course, complete 31 clinical competency exams, pass the ARRT LXMO exam, and undertake 12 hours of continuing education every two years. Their scope of practice in radiography is limited to areas like chest/ribs, abdomen, extremities, foot/ankle, skull/sinuses, and spine, with allowances for emergency procedures with specific provider orders and supervision.
Ohio
The Ohio Department of Health – Radiologic Licensure oversees radiography licensing. Practitioners must complete state-approved education, clinical programs, and pass a recognized exam. Additionally, 24 hours of continuing education are mandated biennially, including 12 hours focusing on radiation safety. Recognized areas of proficiency span across chest, abdomen, extremities, skull, and several others, ensuring comprehensive patient care.
Oklahoma
Radiologic practices in Oklahoma fall under the jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Medical Board. Specific details on radiologic licensure, education, and the scope of practice within the state are not explicitly provided. Radiologic professionals are advised to directly consult state regulations and the medical board for precise requirements and guidelines.
Oregon
Radiographers in Oregon are governed by the Oregon Board of Medical Imaging. They must secure an ARRT Certification or an equivalent. A board-approved course of study, clinical training, and passing the ARRT Limited Scope exam are also necessary. Every two years, practitioners must accrue 18-24 hours of continuing education. They can practice in multiple anatomical regions based on certification.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's Department of State – State Board of Medicine requires radiographers to achieve ARRT Certification or an equivalent. They must also accumulate 24 hours of continued education biennially. Passing the ARRT Limited Scope exam permits them to operate in areas such as the skull, chest, extremities, and more, ensuring broad-spectrum radiological expertise.
Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, overseen by the State Department of Health, radiographers are mandated to have an ARRT Certification or its equivalent. Though specific additional training requirements and in-depth scopes of practice were not distinctly mentioned, professionals are always encouraged to stay updated by consulting the state's health department for comprehensive guidance.
South Carolina
The SC Radiation Quality Standards Association sets guidelines for radiographers, necessitating an ARRT Certification, a board exam passage, and 24 biennial education hours. Licensing allows for limited practices such as general radiography, chest imaging, podiatric, chiropractic, and bone density, ensuring a versatile scope of service.
South Dakota
Radiography in South Dakota, managed by its Department of Health, doesn't mandate a specific state license. However, possessing an ARRT Certification, another state's license, or completing 40 hours of training is crucial. Radiographers are further obliged to finish 5 hours of continuing education every three years, ensuring updated medical practices.
Tennessee
The Tennessee Department of Health – Board of Medical Examiners specifies that radiographers attain the ARRT Certification and pass the Limited Scope exam post state-approved training. Recognized areas for specialization encompass the chest, spine, skull, and more. Such stipulations ensure radiographers are equipped with a broad range of skills.
Texas
Under the Texas Medical Board's guidance, radiographers need the ARRT Certification. Passing the ARRT Limited Scope and the Texas Jurisprudence exams is paramount. Certification allows practice in varied areas like the skull, spine, chest, and extremities, furthering the range of medical services offered to patients in Texas.
Utah
Guided by the Utah Department of Commerce, radiographers must possess the ARRT Certification, conclude 24 hours of education biennially, and clear an ARRT exam. An additional ten biennial education hours are requisite. Specializations cover the skull, spine, chest, and more, ensuring a comprehensive approach to radiology.
Vermont
In Vermont, managed by the Secretary of State's office, radiographers must hold an ARRT Certification and fulfill 24 biennial continuing education hours. While exact requirements for additional training and specific scopes of practice were not distinctly given, professionals should always refer to state guidelines for detailed information.
Virginia
The Virginia Department of Health Professions – Board of Medicine mandates the ARRT Certification or equivalent for radiographers. Additionally, a 50-hour board-approved course and an ARRT Limited Scope exam are essential. Radiographers can operate in many areas, with certain regions like the abdomen/pelvis necessitating more training.
Washington
Radiographers, overseen by the Department of Health, must complete an accredited course and pass either a state or ARRT exam. This certification allows them to specialize in areas like the skull, spine, chest, and extremities. By doing so, Washington ensures that its practitioners have a diverse range of expertise.
West Virginia
The Medical Imaging and Radiologic Technologists Board of Examiners governs radiographers, emphasizing state-approved education and either a state or ARRT exam passage. Though in-depth scopes of practice and additional training details were not explicitly provided, continuous professional growth is encouraged through state resources.
Wisconsin
Directed by the Department of Safety and Professional Services, radiographers in Wisconsin require ARRT Certification, board-approved training, and a specific exam clearance. Recognized areas of specialization include the chest, extremities, and spine, among others. Such guidelines ensure radiographers are well-versed in a broad spectrum of radiologic procedures.
Wyoming
Under the Board of Radiologic Technologists Examiners, Wyoming radiographers must possess an ARRT Certification and clear the ARRT Limited Scope exam. Practice areas span the skull, spine, chest, and extremities. By adhering to these standards, Wyoming ensures its radiographers maintain high professional expertise.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the intricacies of X-ray qualifications in urgent care settings demands a deep understanding of regional requirements and the latest technological advancements. It's equally essential to have equipment that meets the high standards of care these professionals are trained to deliver.
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Disclaimer: The information in this document is solely for reference material. Regulations change often. To be sure of the most up-to-date laws, contact your local and state agencies.
